Same building as the old Tobacco Barn — I understand it’s under new management now. I started going to The Tobacco Barn when I was 18, back in 1998. My best friend at the time introduced me to Tom, and Tom is the one who taught me how to properly smoke a pipe, how to enjoy a cigar, and honestly most of what I know about tobacco. We weren’t close friends or anything like that, but I have many memories of him taking the time to explain the nuances of tobacco. Even when I was barely legal, he never hesitated to take out expensive pipes and explain how they were crafted. He was patient and generous with his knowledge. Tom was quite a bit older than me and my buddy Mike. The only time I ever hung out with him outside the shop was when he treated me to Olive Garden once. Still, he left an impression. It was saddening when he passed. Like many people I’ve lost over the years, he lives on in the memories we carry. Recently, I was getting my tires aligned at Firestone a couple blocks away. They were taking their time, so I figured I’d walk over, buy a cigar, and relax in the lounge like I used to. I picked out a cigar I knew and liked — didn’t even look at the price — and asked what I thought was a rhetorical question about heading back to the lounge. The gentleman behind the counter told me no. He explained that I hadn’t purchased an expensive enough cigar to use the lounge. I wasn’t aware there was a minimum spend requirement, and it wasn’t communicated beforehand. It just left me feeling unwelcome. To be fair, he was polite. He punched my cigar and gave me matches — hence the second star. I don’t have anything negative to say about him personally. Policies are policies. I also knew things had changed over the years. In the past, I must have simply spent enough to meet whatever minimum there was without realizing it. But this experience made it clear that the place I remembered isn’t quite the same. I won’t say Tom would be rolling over in his grave — that’s not fair. I think this is partly about missing an old friend and partly about being reminded how much time passes and things change. Still, it broke my heart a little to see a place that once held such good memories feel so different. It’s unlikely I’ll be back.
Reviews
Popped in and bought couple of sticks real nice selection of quality cigars. Taylor was very helpful showed me around the lounge area. Felt like was walking into a speakeasy! Impressed by the big cigar lounge. Minimum buy if not member to sit there, when I’m in area will definitely be back. Cheers
Very nice employees and a lot of variety to choose from. Overall great experience
I first found tobacco barn in the early 90's. Jim was one of the best people a person could met. I considered him as my friend and he is greatly missed. My last visit there was one of memory and awe. I could feel the same warmth and welcome as i did when i first opened the door and walked in. His legacy lives on. There aren't enough stars in the world to rate this place. tobacco barn is a place you must visit even to just look around. Thank you jacob And jim my friend.. Rip
Nice place for cigar enthusiasts. Great variety and some special orders too. They also have cigar lounge for people with no space to enjoy their purchases. Overall pretty good "1 stop shop" for someone who is in too cigars. For sure can recommend for a visit.
CigarSpots Shop & Lounge
23532 El Toro Rd Ste 13, Lake Forest, CA 92630





